Uganda's PLU: A hostile takeover of the NRM?

The Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), under the leadership of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, is increasingly seen as a force within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), raising questions about its role and influence in Ugandan politics. Kainerugaba, who is also the Chief of Defence Forces and the son of President Yoweri Museveni, is widely considered the heir apparent to his father's 40-year rule.

Recent actions attributed to Kainerugaba have intensified political discourse. In the early hours of June 27, he reportedly ordered a military siege on Daily Monitor, NTV Uganda, and affiliated companies of the Nation Media Group. This shutdown of prominent media operations drew widespread condemnation and outrage. Furthermore, Kainerugaba is accused of ordering the abduction of Miria Matembe, a respected activist and former minister of ethics and integrity, and Susan Nsibirwa, the Managing Director of Monitor Publications. The whereabouts of both individuals remain unknown, contributing to a pervasive state of fear in Uganda.

Other prominent figures, including Eunice Musiime, Director of Akina Mama wa Afrika, a women's rights NGO, and Sarah Bireete, Executive Director of the Centre for Constitutional Governance, were also briefly arrested. Critics contend that Uganda has reached a critical juncture, with Gen. Kainerugaba allegedly ordering the arrest of anyone who opposes or disagrees with him, ranging from generals and activists to journalists and opposition politicians.

The PLU's influence is growing, with Speaker of Parliament Jacob Oboth referring to himself and the Deputy Speaker as "my envoys to Parliament" in relation to Kainerugaba. Oboth has also repeatedly praised the Chief of Defence Forces, a stance that critics find incompatible with the expected constitutional independence of Parliament. NRM ministers and Members of Parliament are openly aligning with the PLU and promoting its objectives. However, the Ugandan Constitution, specifically Article 208, mandates that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) remain non-partisan. Section 99 of the UPDF Act, 2005, further prohibits serving military personnel from engaging in partisan politics or making political statements unless discharged from the army. Despite these provisions, Kainerugaba appears to operate with impunity, a situation attributed to his familial connection to the president.

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I believe that every Ugandan should be a member of PLU.